A wok can easily become one of the most versatile kitchen appliances that you have in your home. It is certainly up there when it comes to a cooking appliance that can do almost anything.
Making stir-fry is what woks are most well known for, but they are also great at a whole host of other things, such as steaming vegetables, maintaining flavor and freshness of ingredients, or charring meat.
Not only that, but it can also be used as various other kinds of kitchen appliances, such as a skillet, a slow cooker, a general pot, or even a fryer.
There are tons of dishes that can be made with a wok, offering a wide range of cooking experiences packed neatly into one pan!
If you are planning on using a wok over an electric stove, you need to be careful as to what sort of wok you invest in. To ensure an even distribution of heat when using a wok with an electric stove, you would be better suited with an appliance that has a flat bottom.
That doesn’t mean that it is impossible to use round-bottomed woks with an electric stove, but it might be a bit more difficult for you to obtain that even level of heat.
This is the most important factor to consider, but there are a variety of other elements that need to be taken into account should you wish to purchase a wok for an electric stove.
With that in mind, we are going to be looking at the best kinds of woks for electric stoves, as well as guiding you through the key points that need to be considered when picking out the best wok for you. Let’s get started!
Craft Wok 16 Inch Heavy Hand Hammered Carbon Steel Pow Wok with Wooden and Steel Helper Handle
The Craft Wok is a good choice for electric stoves due to its deep nature and its 16-inch frame.
As well as for stir-fry- as is its traditional use- this wok can also be used to make a wide range of soups or even be used as a smoker or a steamer too, making it an incredibly versatile choice when looking for a wok that will work well with an electric stove.
This wok is made from 15 gauge- or 1.8mm- carbon steel, which is one of the best choices of material for a wok when using it alongside an electric stove.
As it is a traditional Chinese wok- hand-hammered by Guangzhou professionals themselves- it needs to be seasoned before use.
The handle of the wok is a steel helper handle, which will protect your hands when you are using high heat to cook. This is certainly a fantastic wok to use with an electric stove, but it is also a great wok in general and one that is the main choice for professional Chinese chefs all over the world.
Pros:
- Large in size – 16 inches – so it can handle a lot of ingredients at the same time.
- A traditional Chinese wok that is favored by professional Chinese chefs.
- Made from carbon steel, perfect for electric stoves.
- Multiple uses, such as for steaming or smoking.
- The steel helper handle keeps burns at bay.
Cons:
- The large nature of the wok combined with the carbon steel makes it a heavier choice, so it might not be the best choice if you struggle with heftier kitchenware.
- The bottom is round rather than flat, which could make it difficult for heat to disperse evenly whilst cooking.
Calphalon Signature Hard-Anodized Nonstick 12-Inch Flat Bottom Wok with Cover
The Calphalon is an incredibly durable wok- with a non-stick, PFOA-free metal utensil-safe, three-layer durable interior- that can be used well with an electric stove thanks to that classic flat bottom and the well-sized, 12-inch frame.
A hard-anodized, heavy-gauge, aluminum construct allows for an even distribution of heat and makes for precise cooking in the same way that the flat bottom does.
This ultra-sturdy construction creates a wok that is sure to stand the test of both time and your cooking habits!
This wok is also perfectly safe for oven use as it can withstand up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, making it as simple and as safe as possible for the wok to be transferred from the stove top and into the oven and vice versa.
It is also dishwasher safe too, making for simple and efficient cleaning.
The stainless steel, long handles of the wok will also make sure that you don’t get any accidental burns.
The tempered glass lid of the wok gives it an extra layer of versatility too, allowing you to leave food to simmer on a low heat without the worry of it bubbling over.
Pros:
- Flat-bottomed for even heat distribution whilst cooking.
- PFOA-free.
- Three-layer non-stick interior.
- Long, stainless steel handles.
- Oven and dishwasher safe.
- An aluminum, heavy-gauge construct makes for a durable, long-lasting wok.
- A tempered glass lid.
Cons:
- Not made from carbon steel, which is recommended for when using a wok with an electric stove.
Kenmore Hammond Flat Bottom 14-Inch Carbon Steel Wok
Another flat-bottomed wok, the Kenmore Hammond is made from 1.8-millimeter carbon steel that is guaranteed to distribute and retain heat perfectly whilst cooking.
As well as working well with an electric stove, the Kenmore Hammond wok can also be used with a wide range of stove tops, including induction stoves, ceramic stoves, and gas stoves.
The non-stick interior is free from any external toxicities- such as PFOA and PTFE- and also offers a heat resistance that can withstand up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, making for plenty of high heat cooking!
This wok features a handle made from acacia wood, which offers a good deal of heat resistance as well as an ergonomic grip so that you can avoid any slips whilst cooking.
The 14-inch sizing makes for a wok that has a good level of depth should you be prone to cooking large amounts at a time.
Whether you are stir-frying, braising, frying, stewing, or even sautéing, this is a highly versatile wok that would be an excellent choice for those who enjoy cooking in a range of different styles.
Pros:
- 14 inches and relatively deep.
- A non-stick, heat-resistant interior that is free of PFOA and PTFE.
- Can withstand up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Quick and efficient cooking.
- Acacia wood handles are heat-resistant and provide a stable, ergonomic grip.
- It can be used with various kinds of stove tops.
- Made from durable carbon steel for heat distribution whilst cooking.
Cons:
- Recommended to be hand washed only, so might not be suitable for dishwashers.
Joyce Chen Classic Series 14-Inch Carbon Steel Wok 4-Piece Set
The Joyce Chen brand of wok is another that would suit an electric stove perfectly due to its use of carbon steel and its flat-bottomed design. You don’t just get the wok either, you get a whole set of useful accessories included, such as a recipe booklet, a 12-inch bamboo spatula, a dome lid, and of course, the 14-inch wok itself!
The 1 to 1 and a half millimeter gauge carbon steel makes for quick and precise heat that is guaranteed to maintain that even heat dispersion that you get from a flat-bottomed wok. Carbon steel is known for being a lighter and thinner kind of steel than other alternatives, but it is also a stronger variation.
This makes for a tough and durable wok, but one that isn’t too bulky or difficult to manage due to its heaviness. The birchwood handles keep that same heat away from your hands as you cook. The Joyce Chen wok utilizes one long handle as well as one opposite, smaller, helper handle to allow for a wide range of maneuverability.
The non-stick, steel dome lid also has a birchwood knob on the top, so that you can avoid any wayward burns no matter how you need to handle the wok. Not only that, but the dome itself is a useful feature as it helps to maintain moisture and heat whilst keeping nutrients fresh as you cook.
The wok is safe for use on various kinds of stove tops, both gas, and electric, but it is hand wash only. Make sure to season the wok before use, though. Carbon steel woks need more maintenance than regular ones via seasoning to keep them in optimum condition. This generously sized and versatile wok is a must-have for those planning to use it with an electric stove.
Pros:
- Made from carbon steel.
- Flat-bottomed.
- Measures at a well-sized 14 inches.
- Non-stick, heat-resistant interior.
- Able to withstand cooking temperatures of up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Versatile for use on different kinds of stove tops.
- Birchwood handles and dome lid for easy maneuvering without the risk of burns.
- Dome lid to maintain heat and moisture.
- Various accessories are included in the set, such as a bamboo spatula and a recipe booklet.
Cons:
- Hand wash only.
Souped Up Recipes Carbon Steel Wok for Electric, Induction and Gas Stoves
Another carbon steel wok that would work brilliantly with an electric stove, this wok prides itself on its flat bottom, but it is also a wok intended to aid with teaching in terms of cooking thanks to the accompanying user guide.
This guide features detailed instructions- written instructions and a “Master Wok Cooking” video guide- that allows you to learn as you go.
Not only that, but the guide also has some useful tips as to how to take care of your wok. This guide makes this a particularly excellent choice for cooking novices, or those who aren’t used to cooking with a wok.
This wok also has a wooden handle to avoid any burns and features a spout lip, which allows for clean pouring and is incredibly easy to clean.
As well as that aforementioned user guide, it also comes with a lid and a spatula to help make your experience cooking with the wok even easier.
As the name suggests, this wok was designed by a YouTuber by the name of Souped Up Recipes, who has almost one million subscribers on the platform.
The channel has over 200 video recipes, and you will receive a handy link to this alongside the wok.
If you are concerned about food sticking to the wok, or are unsure as to what to do in regard to the seasoning aspect of a carbon steel wok (remember, if you want the wok to keep working at its best you will need to season it regularly), then this is surely the wok for you as it initially removes those concerns from the equation.
Whilst you will still have to season the wok between uses, it will arrive pre-seasoned so that you can start cooking straight away. This will make the wok non-stick upon arrival, too, but you will need to continue to maintain it if you want it to stay that way.
This is an excellent choice of an electric stove compatible wok for beginners, but it is also great for those who are fans of the Souped Up Recipes YouTube channel!
Pros:
- Carbon steel.
- Flat bottom.
- Comes with a handy user guide.
- Includes a lid and a spatula.
- Spout lip for smooth pouring and easy cleaning.
- Wooden handle that can’t get hot whilst cooking.
- Can be used on induction, electric, gas, and ceramic stoves.
- Has a link with tons of recipes from the YouTube channel that designed the wok.
- A great gift for a fan of the Souped Up Recipes YouTube Channel.
Cons:
- The user guide might not be helpful for more experienced cooks and wok users.
Helen’s Asian Kitchen Carbon Steel and Bamboo 14-Inch Wok
This 14-inch wok is another exceptional choice for electric stoves as it incorporates 1.8-millimeter carbon steel and a durable, riveted flat bottom that makes for a versatile and well-made wok.
The flat bottom not only makes this wok perfect for use with an electric stove, but it also lets the wok sit securely upon any kind of stove, be it gas, ceramic, or induction.
The heat distribution comes out in full force thanks to the carbon steel, whilst the surface of the wok collects a natural, black patina coating over time- with regular use and seasoning-, which lets the wok become non-stick.
Carbon steel is also an incredibly handy material for a wok to be made of, as it can be maintained with ease to help prevent a build-up of rust. It can also be seasoned easily, which is a crucial feature for a carbon steel wok.
The Helen’s Asian Kitchen wok also features a comfortable and heat-resistant bamboo handle, as well as a bamboo helper handle that allows for a full range of motion as you cook without the risk of burning yourself.
It can also be hung up by the handles too, offering more choice when it comes to storing the wok.
Pros:
- Well-sized at 14 inches.
- 1.8-millimeter carbon steel.
- Riveted and durable flat bottom.
- Versatile enough to use with gas and induction stoves as well as electric.
- With regular seasoning and use, the wok will build up a natural black patina that will lead to a smooth, non-stick surface for cooking.
- Easy to be maintained and cleaned.
- Dual bamboo handles that are both ergonomic and heat-resistant.
Cons:
- Best results come from handwashing, so dishwashers should be avoided.
Lodge Pro-Logic 14-Inch Wok with Flat Base and Loop Handles
Another 14-incher, this is a wok that is made from a different material to the well-known carbon steel that we have been going on about quite a lot! Instead, this is a cast-iron wok.
Cast-iron is a great material to use for cookware, as it is incredibly durable and able to withstand high temperatures.
The Lodge Pro-Logic wok is no exception to this rule, with unparalleled heat retention and even dispersion of heat, much like what you get with carbon steel.
You can use this wok comfortably on an electric stove, but also on a grill or over a campfire thanks to the robust nature of cast iron. It is also excellently suited for induction stove tops.
The Lodge Pro-Logic wok comes pre-seasoned- in natural vegetable oil- so that you can start cooking straight out of the box.
It also features that handy flat base as well as large loop handles for easier handling, making for an incredibly versatile wok that can cook in all sorts of styles, such as grilling, frying, searing, baking, braising, or boiling.
Pros:
- Incredibly versatile in terms of the cooking methods that can be utilized within the wok.
- High-temperature cooking and a good level of heat retention and dispersion.
- It can be used on various cooking surfaces, such as over a fire or with a grill.
- Cast-iron material adds an extra layer of robust durability.
- Pre-seasoned, so it is ready to use immediately.
- Easy handling thanks to the loop handles.
- Flat bottom.
Cons:
- Due to being made of cast-iron, the heat retention might not be quite as strong as that of a carbon steel wok. It could also be quite heavy because of this.
Bielmeier 12.5 Inch Carbon Steel Wok with Gloves and Cookware Accessories
This wok is a little smaller- measuring at 12.5 inches – but it can still handle a lot of ingredients and cook them all with an even level of heat thanks to the carbon steel from which it is made.
The lightweight nature of carbon steel makes it highly efficient, but it also allows for a faster cooking time thanks to how quick the speed of the heating process is with a carbon steel wok.
There is no PFOA used on the surface, it is nitrided to allow for the pan to become non-stick after frequent use and seasoning.
The Bielmeier is also well suited to a wide range of stoves- such as gas and induction- but also usable with other heat sources, such as fire from a campfire. It can also be used with ovens too, withstanding up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
In terms of design, the Bielmeier can be used safely and efficiently thanks to the various features that it incorporates, such as a detachable, wooden handle, a soup mouth design that makes pouring a breeze, and a wooden lid that maintains freshness and heat.
As well as this, the wok comes with several accessories to help you along with the cooking process, including a spatula, colored gloves, cooking chopsticks measuring at 12.5 inches, and even a Loofah pot brush for stubborn stains!
Pros:
- Versatile for various stoves, but also various heat sources.
- Detachable, heat-resistant wooden handles.
- The wooden lid keeps the best bits of your cooking safe, fresh and hot.
- Can withstand temperatures up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Lightweight.
- Quick cooking time and high temperature.
- Comes with an array of useful kitchen accessories, such as a spatula for the wok and cooking chopsticks.
- The wok can become more and more non-stick with regular use and seasoning.
Cons:
- Well sized, but 12.5 inches might still be too small for those planning to use the wok frequently
Cooks Standard Stainless Steel Multi-Ply Clad 13 Inch Wok with High Dome Lid
This wok is made from stainless steel rather than carbon steel, making it a little heavier but just as excellent for use with an electric stove.
The 13-inch Cooks Standard wok features a multi-element alloy aluminum core that provides a good deal of control when it comes to heat whilst cooking.
The premium-grade 18-10 stainless steel interior lining helps maintain durability, whilst the stainless steel riveted handles are at no risk of getting too hot thanks to the airflow technology that keeps them cool.
As well as the main body of the wok, it also has a matching stainless steel dome lid, which effectively locks in moisture and heat whilst you cook.
Not only can the Cooks Standard wok be used on a wide range of stoves, but it can also be used in an oven as it can withstand temperatures of up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
As well as that, this wok is dishwasher safe so that you don’t have to worry about spending your time scrubbing at the wok to get it clean.
Pros:
- Flat-bottomed.
- Well suited for electric stoves and induction stoves.
- Durable stainless steel with an aluminum core.
- Can be used in an oven.
- Dishwasher safe.
- Comes with a stainless steel lid.
Cons:
- Not your traditional carbon steel wok, which is what works so well with electric stoves.
Buyers Guide
So there you have just a few fantastic choices when it comes to a wok that you will be able to use effectively with an electric stove.
You might have noticed a few recurring features that pop up in the woks that work best when it comes to using the appliance with an electric stove. If you are looking to invest in a wok that is compatible with an electric stove, it might be difficult to pinpoint each of these particular factors.
That’s where we come in! We have compiled a handy buyer’s guide to help you on your way to choosing the most practical wok for your personal needs.
Let’s take a look at the most important factors to consider before making your decision.
Wok Materials
We have talked about carbon steel a fair amount and for good reason.
Carbon steel is the perfect option when it comes to electric stoves, as the material will conduct heat from the electric heating element a lot faster and with more precision than materials such as cast iron.
Carbon steel woks can be a little difficult in terms of maintenance as they have to be seasoned regularly if you want them to remain durable after constant use, but they are the best-suited material for woks when it comes to using them with an electric stove.
That being said, there is something to be said for cast iron woks, aluminum woks, and stainless steel woks. For instance, whilst carbon steel woks aren’t usually dishwasher friendly, aluminum and stainless steel ones are, and this could be a more practical option for you in the long run.
It all depends on your personal preferences, so do your research on each material, weigh up the benefits of each, and you should be on your way to making a choice.
Flat Bottoms
Woks for electric stoves are at their most efficient if they have a flat bottom. Woks that have rounded bases aren’t impossible to use with electric stoves (we even mentioned a round-bottomed wok above!), but they can make it more difficult to obtain an even heat whilst cooking, leading to a lengthier cooking process.
This is because a flat-bottomed wok will make constant, direct contact with the electrical heating element of the stove.
A round-bottomed stove is not able to remain as stable, though there are ways to remedy this, such as an appliance called a ring stand that can increase the level of support.
Sizing
The size of a wok is also an important factor and will differ from person to person.
Woks have a general size range of between 10 and 14 inches, so if you know you are going to make use of the appliance frequently, consider a wok that veers on the larger end of that scale.
That being said, a larger choice can be helpful even if you aren’t planning on using it quite so frequently, as a bigger cooking space makes for a more efficient and even distribution of heat whilst cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does it Mean to Season A Wok?
You have likely noticed that we have mentioned seasoning your wok quite frequently throughout this list, but what exactly is seasoning?
Seasoning is a simple process wherein you apply water and a thin layer of oil. There are all sorts of oils that you can use for this, such as vegetable oil, coconut oil, and more, but there are some that are better suited than others.
The best kinds of oil for seasoning a wok are those that will have a high smoking point, as they can be heated at particularly high temperatures without burning.
A good example of these kinds of oils includes sunflower oil, peanut oil, or grapeseed oil. You will also want to go for an oil that has a neutral flavoring to avoid any odd flavor combinations!
You can also season a wok with lard if that works best for you.
Once you have chosen your oil or your lard, all you need to do is wipe down the pan with some water and then apply the oil.
A wok will last longer when seasoned the right way, so make sure that you have researched exactly how to season your particular brand of wok before you start to season it.
Why Should I Season My Wok?
Now that we know what it means to season a wok, we are going to look at why you need to do this.
Certain materials- like carbon steel and cast iron- do not have natural non-stick coatings, so if you start cooking in it straight away, you are going to end up with a good portion of your ingredients stuck stubbornly to the bottom of the pan! Seasoning helps to maintain the integrity of a wok by creating a patina, a protective coating within the interior of the pan.
A patina is essentially a natural, non-stick surface that will also help to prevent corrosion, rust and enhance the various flavors as you cook. As we said above, the more precise you are with your seasoning, the longer your wok will last.
How Do You Clean a Wok?
As we mentioned, cast-iron woks and carbon steel woks cannot be put in a dishwasher, so let’s take a look at how to handwash your wok if you opt for one made of either of these materials.
- Begin by rinsing through your used wok in warm to hot soapy dishwater. Use a sponge, a soft-bristled brush, or a wok brush to remove any loose food residue.
- Avoid anything too harsh in terms of both cleaning products and sponges or brushes. You want to clean the wok, but you don’t want to remove the layer of seasoned patina that you have built up!
- Once all the loose residues have been removed, dry the wok completely with a dishcloth.
- To ensure that the pan is completely dry, place your wok on a medium to high heat. This should dry any of the remaining water droplets by evaporating them.
- You can then place your wok in a safe and dry storage area, but if you are planning on using it frequently over the next week or so, you can add a thin layer of your chosen seasoning oil (or lard)after drying to continue building up your patina.
It really is as simple as that! Whilst it might seem like a wok that works best with an electric stove will need a huge amount of maintenance to preserve, this is far from the case.
The seasoning, cleaning, and cooking processes are all simple once you know how to go about them, so what are you waiting for? Get cooking!
